In a large bowl, cover beans with warm water and add baking soda (this will cause the water to foam and remove gas from beans), mix well. Let soak at room temperature for at least 3 hours, preferable overnight.

Drain beans and place in a large pot and again cover with a lot of water and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to medium low and cook for 30 minutes, skimming any froth that comes to the top.

Drain beans, rinse and drain again.

Using a clean pot add the beans and 12 cups of water and place over high heat.